The NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal is given for a significant, specific accomplishment or contribution that significantly improves operations, efficiency, service, financial savings, science or technology that contributes to NASA's mission. Irby was given the award for her sustained commitment to supporting the NASA mission, specifically the Agency's Enterprise, Architecture, Agency Chief Information Officer initiatives and Center documentation and outreach functions.

Irby, a resident of Long Beach, Miss., and a Starkville native, is a graduate of Mississippi State University.